Elizabeth Crawford – CEO, Sendero Wealth Management

As Sendero Wealth Management and Sendero Family Enterprise’s Chief Executive Officer, Liz is responsible for implementing the strategic vision and the day-to-day operations of the firms. Her work builds on the firms’ legacy of adapting services to support families and institutions as they move through their financial lifecycle. Liz founded, Women & Wealth, a program designed to support, empower and educate women about their financial lives. She also co-founded an industry peer group of women CEOs from across the nation who come together to share best practices. Liz is a partner at Sendero Partners. Prior to joining Sendero in 2012, she held leadership positions in a private bank and trust company and worked in marketing and consulting relationships. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Boston University and is Series 65 licensed. She has held numerous charitable board positions and is the recipient of the San Antonio Business Journal C-Suite Award, Women’s Leadership Award, 40 Under 40 Rising Star Award, as well the Five Star Advisor Award.

TOPIC

Importance of children’s financial literacy.

SHORT TALK DESCRIPTION

Nearly half of American parents would rather talk with kids about the birds and bees than about dollars and cents. And while sex talk can be shocking to adults and kids alike, talking about money is often just as shocking. Sharing the details of our own money situation can be a lot like getting naked. It’s embarrassing and awkward, and we don’t know if we’re doing it right, though we’re pretty sure we aren’t perfect. Still, no one is exempt from needing or using money, so let’s talk about it! Nearly 80% of Americans live paycheck-to-paycheck and 46% don’t have enough on-hand to cover a $400 emergency expense. We clearly need to change our approach. Imagine a world where money works for you, not against you. Imagine how that might change the idea of what a young person can accomplish in life. Imagine a world that allows a better life for all those millions of Americans now living paycheck-to-paycheck. Our children are watching, so let’s get naked. Start talking dollars and cents, not just birds and bees.

TEDx QUOTE

“My first reaction was ‘Oh no, now I have to write the whole talk!’ At the same time, I was SUPER EXCITED to bring this message to people. We cannot create change if we don’t discuss the problem. Thank you for giving me the opportunity!”